2004 Acura TSX vs. 1978 AMC Pacer
To start off, 2004 Acura TSX is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 AMC Pacer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 AMC Pacer would be higher. At 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura TSX (200 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1978 AMC Pacer. (90 HP @ 3050 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura TSX should accelerate faster than 1978 AMC Pacer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura TSX weights approximately 141 kg more than 1978 AMC Pacer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 AMC Pacer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 AMC Pacer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Acura TSX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Acura TSX (225 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 AMC Pacer. (222 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 Acura TSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 AMC Pacer. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 2004 Acura TSX has manual transmission. 2004 Acura TSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 AMC Pacer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Acura TSX | 1978 AMC Pacer | |
| Make | Acura | AMC |
| Model | TSX | Pacer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 3802 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 3050 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1359 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 83 L |
